Exterior photos often need corrections for exposure, colour, and contrast. Sky replacement is another common retouching request.
When photographing buildings or architectural structures, vertical lines must remain vertical. Tilted verticals make a building appear as if it’s leaning or falling backward and this creates a distracting and unprofessional look. No architect, builder, or real estate agent wants to showcase a crooked property.
Retouching may also require the removal of power lines, street signs, debris on the ground, people, cars, etc.
Most professional photographers correct vertical distortion during post-processing. However, some overlook this step due to inexperience, technical limitations, or the mistaken belief that tilted lines add artistic flair. In reality, distortion usually undermines the image’s professionalism.
Retouching can fix tilted verticals, but it only works if the composition allows for it. Photographers need to frame shots with enough space around the structure. Without this buffer, straightening the image may crop out parts of the building.
Prevention Is Always Better
Preventing distortion is always better than fixing it later. The best tool for this is a tilt-shift lens, which corrects perspective in-camera. If that’s not available, stepping back and using a longer focal length or shooting from a higher vantage point can also help. This may not be possible in tight spaces and retouching may be the only option.
Horizontal lines like floors, ceilings, and rooflines, also need to be reasonably horizontal. You can get away with crooked horizontals to some degree, but not crooked verticals.
If horizontal lines appear tilted, the space will look sloped or unstable. Horizontal distortion is harder to correct, so it’s critical to keep the camera level and compose carefully during the shoot.
If your business uses images of buildings, homes, or similar structures, make sure those images are professionally edited. At a minimum, correct the verticals to present the structure accurately and professionally.
More information on my photo retouching services.
